Two towering figures of football's modern era, Maldini won seven Serie A titles and five European titles during a 25-year Milan career, while Ferguson's 13 Premier League crowns and two Champions League triumphs established United as a dominant force at home and abroad.

Speaking at the launch event for the International Champions Cup in New York, Ferguson spoke on stage alongside Maldini and said his father – former Italy boss Cesare – gave the prospect of the all-time great left-back moving to Old Trafford short shrift.

"I did try [to sign Maldini] but when I met his father he was quite formidable, I got a shake of the head," Ferguson explained in a light-hearted exchange.